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Class ._SV^ii 
Book .'?4- „ 

COraRIGIfl' DEPOSIT 



A NEW 

CHRISTMAS 

LEGEND 



i/ BY 

J: BRADFORD PENGELLY 



1916 



The Flint Printing Company 
Flint, Michigan. 



^/^^ 



f4- 



Copyrighted, 1916 

By 

J. Bradford Pengelly 

Flint, Michigan 






jfo: 

DEC 22 1916 



Ci,A455804 



To all those who love the Christmas 
Spirit and try to live in its richness and 
beauty, and to all those who find in the 
life and teachings of Christ inspiration to 
work for a New Social Salvation and the 
Universal Brotherhood of Man, this Book 
is lovingly dedicated. 

It is dedicated in general to those 
statesmen, manufacturers, merchants, labor- 
ers and thinkers who are striving to bring 
about a state of society in which justice, 
co-operation and good will shall be the 
guiding principles. 

It is dedicated in particular to the 
Vestrymen of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, 
for they are working and giving to make 
their city an ideal one. From the characters 
and works of these men the author has re- 
ceived many impressions which are set forth 
in this story. 



St. Paul's Rectory 
Flint, Michigan 
December, 1916 



Characters 

Tisaphernes, a Persian Prince 
Benjamin, An Artisan of Damascus 
Samuel, a Merchant of Ephesus 
Pollycrates, a Teacher of Athens 



Setting 

Babylonia 

Palestine 

Damascus 

Ephesus 

Atthens 

Time 

5 B. C. to 26 A. D. 



Book I — In the Days of Caesar 

A Vision from Mars Hill 
In the Days of' Caesar 
The Star of Bethlehem 
By the Waters of Babylon 
The Dream of a Working Man 
The Eternal Quest of the Soul 

Book 11— Pilgrims to the Holy City 

A Swing Across the Desert 
A Caravan to Jerusalem 
O^er Sea and Land 
The Birthplace of a King 

Book III — The Spread of the Christinas 
Spirit 

War and Peace 

Prince and People, a New Kingdom 
''To Do Justly and to Love Mercy" 
Ideas and Ideals 



Book IV — The Generous Christmas Spirit 

Gifts from the Nation 
Gifts from the Masses 
Gifts from the City 
Universal Brotherhood 



Book V — The Immortality of the Christ- 
mas Influence 

The King is Dead, Long Live the 

People 
A Gala Day in Ephesus, Remoulding 

Society 
His Last Words 



BOOK I 

In the Days of Ceasar 

In the Days of Caesar 
The Star of Bethlehem 
By the Waters of Babylon 
The Dream of a Working Man 
The Eternal Quest of the Soul 
A Vision from Mars Hill 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



In the Days of Caesar 

When Caesar ruled in Rome and his 
legions were all powerful, a child was 
born in one of the hilly towns on "The 
Bridge of the World." This child was 
destined to become a great king and 
subdue the nations by his power. 

For centuries many men had longed 
and watched for the advent of this child. 
Ancient books of lore were full of joyful 
songs about his coming and old histories 
were ever renewed by the prophecies of 
the birth of a mighty counsellor, a prince 
and savior of men. 

And now the time had come when the 
whole earth was atremor and the hearts 
of men aglow. Everyone and everything 
seemed to sense the immediateness of a 
mysterious and wonderful event. The 
thought that 'The Day of the Lord" was 
at hand pulsated everywhere. The magi 
scanned the skies with their trained and 
eager eyes. The lowly shepherds watch- 
ing the flocks by night turned their faces 
unconsciously to the heavens with hum- 

11 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

ble adoration. A divine expectancy 
welled up in the hearts of men. The 
time had come when God Himself was 
going to become man^nd make His home 
on earth. 

In the twenty-sixth year of the reign of 
Augustus Caesar, being the year 5 B. C, 
when peace had blessed the Roman 
world for many moons, the subject peo- 
ples of the empire were ordered to their 
respective cities to be enrolled and to be 
taxed. In the land of Palestine, "The 
Bridge of the World,'' where Egyptian, 
Babylonian, Greek and Roman had in 
turn marched to and fro with triumphant 
tread, the Jewish families pilgrimaged to 
their fathers' cities to be assessed. 



12 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



The Star of Bethlehem 

Lying nested in the hills of Judea like 
a babe gathered in its mother's arms lies 
the little town of Bethlehem. 

O little town of Bethlehem, 

How still we see thee lie! 

Above thy deep and dreamless sleep 

The silent stars go by; 

Yet in thy dark streets shineth 

The everlasting light; 

The hopes and fears of all the years 

Are met in thee tonight. 

This was the city of the great king and 
thither went the families of the royal 
house of David. Among the families 
who made this solemn and pathetic jour- 
ney was the one of Joseph, a carpenter, 
and his wife Mary. When they arrived 
in Bethlehem the little town was so 
crowded that there was no room for them 
at the inn. Joseph and his wife, being 
poor, found their quarters in a stable. 

Unknown to many and recognized by 
only a few, a bright star moved as did 
this holy family, and when the young 
Mary laid herself down to rest the star 
rested right above her and its brightness 

13 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

increased so that all who had waited and 
watched knew its story. Mary was soon 
to be delivered of her child, a boy, the 
anointed one of God. 

Men in Palestine, men in Babylonia, 
men in Damascus, men in Ephesus and 
men in Athens knew that star for they 
were ready for its shining. 



14 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



By the Waters of Babylon 

In distant Babylonia there lived a Per- 
sian Prince who ruled over a great 
portion of that wonderful land laved by 
the waters of the Euphrates and the 
Tigris. His name was Tisapherenes and 
he was learned in the long history of his 
land and the many peoples who had 
ruled or been captives there. He had 
pondered some of the Jewish legends 
and had kept in mind the character and 
sayings of Daniel, a Hebrew captive. 
The rebuilding of Jerusalem and the 
coming of a prince who would rule in 
equity fired his imagination. 

Often as he engaged in the mystic rites 
of his religion and worshipped the great 
Mazda his fancy followed the fires of 
the ritual and he saw, 'The Light that 
lighteth every man that cometh into the 
world.'' 

Late in the month of December as 
Tisaphernes sat one evening upon his 
housetop looking to the west he dis- 

15 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

tinguished a new star. He started with 
joy and rising quickly lifted his hands 
towards the star and said, ''O, Mazda, 
thou eternal prince of light, praise be 
thine, that mine eyes have seen the star 
of Him who will drive the prince of 
darkness from the hearts of men. O, 
Mazda, grant that this star may shine 
every night to lead me until I have found 
the child.'' 

For a few moments he gazed in rap- 
ture at the heavenly token and then 
folded his arms upon his breast and 
bowed his head in silent gratitude and 
meditation. Presently he raised his head 
and gazed steadfastly at this new light 
of heaven. His proud and erect bearing ; 
his flowing white robes with crimson bor- 
ders; his gleaming, black eyes; his 
strong, refined profile and the spiritual 
gladness of his face all enhanced by the 
soft setting of this clear and glorious 
night made him appear the most prince- 
ly of men. The whole scene was like an 
enchanted painting. 

Tisaphernes watched the star quietly 
and adoringly until it sank from view, 
then he descended into one of the spac- 

16 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

ious rooms of his palace. He busied him- 
self awhile attending to some of the 
many details of his state for he was a 
ruler who loved his people and strove to 
do his best. When these matters of state 
had been arranged he called his most 
trusty servant and told him to prepare 
himself and his two favorite Arabian 
steeds for a long journey towards the 
Great Sea in the west. The servant with- 
drew and Tisaphernes reclined on one of 
his couches to dream of the quest of the 
promised child. 



17 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



The Dream of a Working Man 

In the city of Damascus there lived an 
artisan by the name of Benjamin who 
was skilled in working gold, a goldsmith 
as we should say today. Benjamin was 
not a Jew, but a Samaritan. He was 
neither of a princely nor of a priestly 
nor of a wealthy family. For generations 
his family had been workingmen who 
were not ashamed of their calling, but 
proud of their exceptional skill. Ben- 
jamin belonged to the common people. 

By regular work of a high order and 
by the cultivation of quiet and happy 
habits Benjamin had put aside from his 
earnings twelve talents of silver, which 
would equal about six thousand dollars 
of our money. This was enough to 
make him more or less independent and 
was considered a fine achievement, as 
Benjamin was not old, being only in his 
fiftieth year. He was alert and athletic. 
He was intelligent, generous, honest and 
pious. 

Although a Samaritan and an artisan, 

18 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

Benjamin was not lacking either in re- 
ligious interests or in the love of learn- 
ing. He was thoughtful and well read. 
In the evenings, on holidays and Sab- 
baths, Benjamin occupied his time in 
study. He was much taken with the 
writings of Isaiah who spoke of the com- 
ing of a prince who would reign with 
justice. 

For unto us a child is born, unto us 
a son is given : and the government 
shall be upon His shoulder; and His 
name shall be called Wonderful, Coun- 
sellor, The Mighty God, the Everlasting 
Father, The Prince of Peace. 

Of the increase of his government 
and peace there shall be no end, upon 
the throne of David, and upon his king- 
dom, to order it, and to establish it with 
judgment and with justice from hence- 
forth even forever. The zeal of the 
Lord of hosts will perform this. 

He read and pondered other Hebrew 
prophets and hence his heart was filled 
with a yearning for a social salvation. 
He, too, looked for "The Day of the 
Lord" when a child would be born who 
would be the friend of the masses, and 
v/ho would love and sympathize with 
those who labor because he himself 
would grow up to know toil. 

19 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

Many a night found Benjamin sitting 
alone upon the top of his house, which 
he owned himself. He knew little about 
the stars, but a small, still voice inspired 
him that some night as he watched and 
prayed for the social salvation of man a 
sign v/ould appear in the skies. 

A joyful restlessness surged in the 
heart and mind of Benjamin one even- 
ing as he walked to his home from a 
meeting of his fellow laborers where 
problems relating to their common life 
had occupied their attention. ''This is 
the night! This is the night!" he said 
almost aloud as he quickened his steps, 
''that I shall see the long looked for sign 
of heaven." He hurried to his favorite 
spot on the top of his house which faced 
the southwest. He scanned the skies a 
moment and then he cried with a re- 
strained voice, "The Star of Bethlehem! 
The Star of Bethlehem! The promised 
son is born. I will go and carry him 
presents and swear my allegiance to 
him." 



20 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



The Eternal Quest of the Soul 

In the populous and rich city of 
Ephesus there lived a Jewish merchant 
who was renowned for his shrewdness 
and for the success of his factories and 
stores. His business was the making and 
marketing of tents. In all of the great 
centers of Asia Minor he had his houses 
and agents. He was well known as 
Samuel the Merchant Prince of Ephesus. 

This man was a Jew of the Dispersion 
and a strict Pharisee. He was learned 
in the Mosaic law, very devout, faithful 
in the performance of religious duties 
and v^^as earnestly waiting for "The Day 
of the Lord'' when God would reveal 
his salvation in the Holy City and gather 
Israel under the leadership of the long 
promised Messiah. 

Samuel was regular in attendance at 
the synagogue and talked much with 
the rabbi who was a scholarly and spirit- 
ual man. The rabbi pondered the re- 
vered books of his people. He felt that 
the time was at hand for the coming of 

21 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

the anointed one. Accounts of the fer- 
vent preaching of one named Simon near 
the Jordan had reached him and caused 
him to study all prophecies anew. 

One Sabbath as Hillel the rabbi and 
Samuel the merchant conversed after 
the reading and explanation of a passage 
from ^The Prophets/' Hillel said, ^^Son, 
I believe the birthday of the promised 
King and Redeemer is at hand. All 
signs seem to point to that event. Can 
we not watch for the star that our wise 
men have informed us will appear to 
tell us of the advent of the Prince of 
Peace? Did not Isaiah say?'' 

Therefore the Lord Himself shall 
give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall 
conceive, and bear a son, and shall call 
his name Immanuel. 

Samuel's heart leapt for joy and he 

invited Hillel to join him in the evening 

to watch for the star. From the top of 

Samuel's house they looked off to the 

south. As they watched a sweet silence 

settled upon them which was hardly 

broken when Hillel, whose eyes were 

first to find the star for his mind was 

trained, said, ''Samuel, yonder is the 

heavenly sign." 

22 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

Samuel made no reply other than a 
smile. The joy of that hour was too 
sublime for words. Each man stood 
transfigured with ecstacy. Their spirits 
shone through and surrounded their 
heads and faces giving them each a halo. 
What a scene! The rabbi with his 
stately form; his high brow; his large, 
thoughtful eyes and his long white 
beard : the merchant with his quick eyes ; 
his shrewd face; his short dark beard 
and his somewhat stooped form, blended 
into a painting silhouetted against the 
blue sky of this clear night that filled one 
with the mystery of that indefinable and 
ineffable quest of the human soul for 
God and His salvation which will com- 
plete the life of man. At last Samuel 
broke the silence, saying, 'Tomorrow I 
shall start for Jerusalem where I shall 
find among the wise men the full mean- 
ing of this star. Master, wilt thou go?'' 
Hillel replied quietly and resignedly, 
''My work keeps me here. You go and I 
will stay at home and pray for the peace 
of Jerusalem." 



23 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



A Vision from Mars Hill 

In that city which has been the in- 
spiration of science, art, and philosophy 
for ages, Athens, the mother of the in- 
tellect, there lived a thinker by the 
name of Pollycrates. He had pondered 
all the works of Socrates, Plato and Aris- 
totle. He had read the great epics of 
his race. The later poets of his country 
he knew by heart. The histories of 
Herodotus fascinated him. He was also 
versed in the Vedas, the sacred books of 
India; in the Avestas, the sacred books 
of Zoroaster; and in the '*Book of the 
Dead,'' the great religious work of the 
Egyptians. In brief, he had studied all 
religions, philosophies, sciences and sys- 
tems of ethics. 

Pollycrates was probably fifty-five 
years old and his appearance was im- 
pressive in every bearing and expression. 
His eyes were large and luminous like 
the brighter stars; his forehead broad 
and high; his face had a few light 
wrinkles that were evidences of concen- 

24 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

trated thinking. His character was 
noble and every gesture and look were 
refined and dignified. He walked or 
stood or talked with the fine poise of a 
man who has studied deeply into the 
inner meaning of life. For such a man 
as he, all men have the greatest admir- 
ation. 

One evening as Pollycrates was v^alking 
towards his house on the road to the 
Piraeus he began to think of the re- 
markable longings of the human heart, 
of its craving for salvation, immortality 
and perfection. ''Surely," he said to him- 
self, ''there is an answer, a rational 
answer, to these yearnings of the deep- 
est being of man.'' 

Then he recalled the stories that 
were current in the East of one who 
would come and bring "life and immor- 
tality to light." He remembered that 
the magi had said the coming of this 
promised one would be accompanied 
with signs and wonders. A strange 
star would appear to let the watching 
eyes of those who looked for a new rev- 
elation know the time. 

This thought fixed itself in his fancy 

25 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

and he searched the skies with earnest 
eyes. Off to the south there was a star 
he had never seen before. Pollycrates 
gazed at it for some time then he went 
over to the home of a friend, Aristides, 
v/ho made the stars his special study. 
Aristides declared this was a new star 
and that it likely was a token of the Gods 
and according to prophecy. The answer 
pleased Pollycrates who told his friend 
the secret of his heart, how he believed 
this star was the sign of the birth of the 
One who would remake the world and 
save it with new knowledge from its un- 
belief and fears. "Tomorrow," he said 
quietly, '1 shall leave for the Holy City." 



End of Book One 



26 



BOOK II 

Pilgrims to the Holy City 

A Swing Across the Desert 
A Caravan to Jerusalem 
O'er Sea and Land 
The Birthplace of a King 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



A Swing Across the Desert 

For seven days Tisaphernes and his 
servant rode across the vast plains and 
deserts that stretch from Babylon to 
Damascus. Tisaphernes had studied the 
route carefully before beginning the 
journey so every day as the sun soared 
to his meridian he and his servant and 
steeds rested beside still waters under 
the shade of waving palm trees. On the 
evening of the seventh day Tisaphernes 
rode exultingly through the eastern gate 
of the home city of Benjamin. He found 
a good inn and before lying down he 
offered a prayer of gratitude for a safe 
journey thus far, and taking one long 
and loving look at the star he retired to 
dream of his quest. 



29 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



A Caravan to Jerusalem 

As Tisaphernes and his servant jour- 
neyed from Damascus to Jerusalem they 
overtook a party of merchantmen travel- 
ing in a big caravan. Mounted upon one 
of the camels sat Benjamin, his face 
radiant like the new born star itself. As 
all were now moving up the steep ascent 
caused by the hills that rise from the 
Jericho road up to Jerusalem none could 
go very fast so all kept together in a 
friendly group. 

Benjamin thought he saw in the face 
of Tisaphernes evidence of a spiritual 
joy similar to that which surged in his 
own heart. He inquired therefore, ''Dost 
thou also seek the promised child?'' Tis- 
aphernes answered, ''I do,'' and added, 
''We shall meet again." 



30 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



O'er Sea and Land 

When one of the trading vessels set its 
sails for the open sea in the Piraeus, the 
port of Athens, it carried the distin- 
guished Pollycrates. Driven by favor- 
able winds the ship soon came to the port 
of Ephesus. The first man to step aboard 
v/as Samuel, the merchant, whose eager, 
happy look bespoke a great joy of the 
soul. Pollycrates watched this fello^v 
passenger and after some time he spoke 
to him in the Greek language which was 
the common tongue of that day, asking, 
''Seeketh thou Him who v/ill give to the 
world newer, bigger ideas, indeed, a new^ 
and better system of life?'' Samuel an- 
swered, ''I seek the son of the house of 
David who shall reign in righteousness, 
and v/ho shall judge the nations with 
justice." 

These men on the same quest had 
sweet fellowship as their voyage con- 
tinued to the great port of Joppa w^here 
they were taken ashore in small boats 

31 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

and were just in time to catch a Roman 
coach bound for Jerusalem. At the very 
moment when they arrived at the Da- 
mascus gate, Tisaphernes and Benjamin 
were passing through. 



32 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



The Birthplace of a King 

Ten days had passed since these four 
men first saw the star. After the evening 
meal and a short rest they all prepared 
to journey to Bethlehem where the babe 
Jesus had been born and cradled in a 
manger. 

Tisaphernes bade Benjamin ride on one 
of his steeds, while Pollycrates and Sam- 
uel unknown to the others made their 
way to the birthplace in a picturesque 
oriental carriage. When the Greek and 
the Jew had given their presents and 
were rising, the Persian and Samaritan 
were just kneeling to present their gifts. 
As they arose from paying their homage 
to the new born God-Man all hearts 
were inspired and drawn to one another 
by their common hope and love. 

The Greek was the first to speak and 
he said, 'Triends, I have found what I 
have been searching for in the pages of 
history, philosophy and religion. I shall 
live in- the spirit of this revelation of 
God." The Jew answered, "Our Holy 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

Books tell US of a Messiah, an Anointed 
One of God for the saving of the na- 
tions; I believe this is He/' The Artisan 
said, "God hath promised to raise up a 
man from among us to be the Savior of 
all, a Judge who will reign in Justice, 
an Elder Brother, a Comrade who will 
love the common people/' The Persian 
said, ''And He shall be 'King of Kings' 
and 'Lord of Lords.' I will follow the 
inspiration of this day." 



End of Book Two 



34 



BOOK III 

The Spread of the Christinas Spirit 

War and Peace 

Prince and People, a New Kingdom 
''To Do Justly, and to Love Mercy " 
Ideas and Ideals 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



War and Peace 

These four friends agreed to band 
themselves together and to go forth to 
spread the spirit of the infant Jesus and 
the first Christmas Day« After some 
discussion they made their plans and 
started toward the northeast mounted 
on four of the finest Arabian steeds. 
After three days' journey they came 
near to the city of Damascus. It was 
eventide and the sun was sinking in a 
bed of red clouds with edges of gold. 
The crimson colors of the clouds were 
reflected on the great white walls of the 
city and gave them a warm, inviting 
glow. The keeper of the gate allowed 
them entrance after a brief conversation. 

As they proceeded to the quarters of 
the artisan they met a great, rioting mob 
of men. Benjamin recognized some of 
these men as his comrades and began to 
question them. They told him that they 
were being poorly paid and sorely op- 
pressed. He said he would do what he 
could for them and asked some of them 
to go with him and his three friends and 

37 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

talk their troubles over with their em- 
ployers. During the conference an 
agreement was reached and many- 
wrongs and misunderstandings on both 
sides were righted. The employers and 
the men were so happy that they ar- 
ranged a big banquet for Benjamin and 
his companions. Many speeches of grati- 
tude were made and a purse of gold was 
offered to Benjamin, who refused, say- 
ing, *'I am glad to hear your kind words 
of gratitude because of the harmony we 
have restored. My aim is to help all men 
live in goodwill. I desire to see them 
love and serve one another. But, com- 
rades, I must refuse your gold for my- 
self, however, if you wish I shall place it 
with the exchangers and you all can add 
to it on every Christmas Day what you 
can afford and use it as a fund for those 
who have misfortunes.'' But they all 
cried out that he should take the gold 
and use it in his good works of bringing 
the children of men into unity. This he 
agreed to do. When the four friends saw 
peace ruling and the men all at work 
and happy, Tisaphernes invited the oth- 
ers to ancient Babylonia. 

38 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



Prince and People, a New Kingdom 

For several days they journeyed across 
the great desert that stretches between 
Damascus and Babylonia trying to stop 
always at some oasis for the night. At 
last the great walls of Babylon, eighty 
feet high, appeared. Almost the first 
thing that the Prince heard was that 
some men had stirred up a rebellion 
while he was absent and that many had 
been killed and much property de- 
stroyed. He asked these men to meet 
him and see what injustice needed to be 
eliminated. They told him many things 
he did not know about his own prince- 
dom, of the graft and oppression, of in- 
competence, of class snobbishness and 
hatred. He at once set to work to know 
his people and to rule in the spirit of 
Christ. He asked men of all classes to 
assist him in many necessary reforms. 
He swore that all should have equal 
rights and that justice should be his 
motto. Everything was done to help in- 
crease the health, intelligence, morals, 

39 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

prosperity and happiness of the people. 
It soon became known throughout the 
world that this kingdom was the best of 
all on the earth. The people wished to 
shower many costly gifts on him, but he 
refused, saying, ''My joy is to do these 
things. I have seen a new light.'' And 
then he added, ''Our aim,'' meaning him- 
self and his three friends, "is to see a 
kingdom owned by all and ruled by all 
and receiving the loyalty of all." Order 
being restored and harmony established 
and Democracy in Spirit at work in the 
realm the other three accepted the in- 
vitation of Samuel to go to Ephesus. 



40 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



"To Do Justly and to Love Mercy" 

When they came to this city Samuel 
found much to do in his factories and 
stores. He first of all decided not to 
employ any young children. The women 
were to receive better wages and those 
who were soon to become mothers or had 
just become mothers were given leave of 
absence with full pay. He improved the 
conditions in all ways, obtaining physi- 
cians and teachers who instructed the 
men and their families in better habits 
of life. In many cases wages were raised. 
He built a big hall where the men met 
and discussed their problems and en- 
joyed a common social life. It soon be- 
came known that Samuel had the happi- 
est and most eflftcient workmen in all 
Asia Minor. He was thereby made very 
happy himself. One strange thing about 
it all was that the more Samuel did for 
the people the more interest they had in 
their work and the more good will for 
society. He paid bigger wages but his 
profits were increased. A part of these 

41 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

increased profits he shared with his men. 
The public had a kindly feeling toward 
him and his goods were in great demand. 
But one day a manufacturer berated him 
for doing these things. Samuel explained 
all to him, and he, too, began to get a 
bigger and better vision. Samuel said, 
''Have you ever read these words from 
one of our Prophets? 'He hath showed 
thee, O man, what is good; and what 
doth the Lord require of thee, but to do 
justly, and to love mercy, and to walk 
humbly with thy God?"' 



42 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



Ideas and Ideals 

Having arranged their matters in 
Ephesus the four men sailed to the in- 
tellectual center of the world, Athens, 
the home of philosophy, art, and science. 
Pollycrates went to the Agora where he 
daily preached the message of a new 
spirit among men and a new kingdom of 
good will. Many students from every 
quarter of the globe heard him and many 
believed his message. These believers 
went back to their homes and preached 
the gospel of "Glory to God in highest, 
on earth peace, good will among men.'* 
Soon the tidings found their way into 
countless hearts. Pollycrates had now 
left off teaching and had become a 
preacher of this new gospel. His in- 
fluence could not be estimated for he 
inspired many keen and earnest young 
men who devoted their lives to preaching 
the Kingdom of Heaven, that is right- 
eousness, justice and service among all 
men, and to establishing that kingdom 
in practical ways. They founded schools 

43 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

where the children of the poor were 
taught the various sciences of the day. 
Some of them studied the problems of 
disease and built laboratories in which 
they made experiments and aimed to dis- 
cover the causes of pestilences. Then and 
there was born that glorious boon to man 
the science for the prevention of disease. 
Some of these young men even allowed 
themselves to be experimented upon in 
order to increase human knowledge and 
power in dealing with these great prob- 
lems of the vitalizing and prolonging oi 
life. They sacrificed themselves but they 
saved millions of men. 

Art, philosophy, poetry, music, re- 
ligion, morals and sciences were all lifted 
to a higher plane as a result of the life 
and teachings of Pollycrates and his 
followers. 



End of Book Three 



44 



BOOK IV 

The Generous Christinas Spirit 

Gifts from the Nation 
Gifts from the Masses 
Gifts from the City 
Universal Brotherhood 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



Gifts from the Nation 

For many years there stood in the 
Capital of Tisaphernes' kingdom a mag- 
nificent Congress Hall erected by the 
people in admiration of the spirit of their 
prince. To this hall the representatives 
of the people came and made laws to 
enrich the life of the nation. The Spirit 
of Christmas was in the land and all 
were happy. This hall stood and was a 
center of great good for centuries until 
some wild men in great hordes who 
knew not the value of civilization, swept 
down from the mountains to the east and 
over ran the land and destroyed its build- 
ings. Even then the power remained 
and began to mould the lives of these 
new peoples into better forms. Thus did 
the Spirit of Christ prevail. 



47 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



Gifts from the Masses 

In Damascus the friends of Benjamin 
built a great club house where the com- 
mon people met and where a fine spirit 
of comradeship was always present. It 
was the spirit that Benjamin had brought 
to the people from his Christmas visit to 
the infant Christ. No one can ever tell 
what that influence meant to the city of 
Damascus in wealth, health, achievement 
and happiness. 



48 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



Gifts from the City 

In Ephesus the social work begun by- 
Samuel was followed by other manufac- 
turers and merchants who got the vision 
that their human materials were the 
most valuable of all, for it is the human 
genius that has the creating, transform- 
ing power and that makes the raw mater- 
ials into the desired products. The status 
of all grades of society was lifted up, 
wealth was more abundant and its dis- 
tribution more just. Parks, playgrounds 
and theatres were given to the city to 
be used by all the people. A large new 
stadium was built by the city and dedi- 
cated to the social and spiritual uses of 
all the citizens. 



49 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



Universal Brotherhood 

Athens had been famed for centuries 
because of its wonderful buildings, but 
the Temple built by Pollycrates and his 
friends added new glory to this city of 
glory. This Temple was now the rarest 
gem in Athens' brilliant crown which 
sparkled from her brow, Mars Hill. 
Pollycrates preached his new gospel in 
this Temple which was continually filled, 
for the Athenians being intellectual, 
were interested in all new ideas. Many 
young men felt their minds being recast 
and their souls reborn as they listened 
to the teaching of this man who had 
found in his Christmas visit to the prom- 
ised child a truer and bigger interpreta- 
tion of the ideas of The Fatherhood of 
God and Brotherhood of Man. One day 
he said, "Because God is the Father of 
us all, we all are Brothers and ought so 
to live as to be known as Brothers." He 
enlarged this idea of Brotherhood to ex- 
tend beyond Athens and the Athenians, 
beyond Hellas and the Hellenes, yes, 

50 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

beyond any group of men so as to em- 
brace all men. The ideal of the Uni- 
versal Brotherhood and Democracy of 
Man fired the fresh and unprejudiced 
minds of many young men to such an ex- 
tent that they went in all directions to 
preach this word. Their theme was 
really always the one the shepherds 
heard on the first Christmas eve, ''Glory 
to God in the highest, on earth peace, 
good will among men.'' 



End of Book Four 



51 



BOOK V 



The Immortality of the Christmas 
Influence 

The King is Dead, Long Live the People 

A Gala Day in Ephesus, Remoulding 

Society 
His Last Words 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



The King is Dead, Long Live the People 

Years passed and there was a great 
gathering in the city of Tisaphernes who 
had now grown old and wished to pass 
the government on to his son, whom he 
had trained to love the people, and be 
one with them and rule with equity and 
justice as a Prince of Peace. The Con- 
gress Hall was thronged and Tisapher- 
nes sat upon his throne. He knew this 
would be his last speech to the people 
but he was cheerful. He said, **My be- 
loved friends and fellow countrymen, 
the time is slowly and surely coming 
when the Spirit of Christmas will reign 
in our parliaments and lead all men 
tov/ards peace, brotherhood and service. 
Some day, it may be ages away, we shall 
look back Vv^ith shame upon our horrible 
national hates and our cruel murderous 
wars, and forward with pride to the 
coming of the Universal Man. There 
will be a day when the war drum throbs 
no more and the battle flags are furFd, 
in the Parliament of Man, in the Feder- 

55 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

ation of the World/' A mighty shout of 
joy filled the hall when these words were 
spoken.* But the effort and joy of the 
occasion were too much for Tisaphernes, 
who fell forward and was caught in the 
arms of his son. He smiled serenely and 
moved his lips gently. His son bent down 
and listened, and he thought he heard 
these words, ''The Star of Bethlehem! 
The Star of Bethlehem! O Mazda, I 
thank thee that I found the promised 
child and that my realm has known the 
Christmas Spirit." His son listened again 
but heard no more. 

Babylonia never before saw such a 
tribute of love as was the funeral of this 
Prince who tried to make the spirit of 
Christ prevail in his realm. 



5G 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



A Gala Day in Ephesus, Remoulding 
Society 

On one of the gala days in Ephesus 
a most unique group of people gathered 
in the great park which had been pre- 
sented to the city by Samuel. This group 
of people was composed of Samuel and 
all the men who worked with him and 
their families. 

Here was a real picnic in which Sam- 
uel and all his friends joined. Benjamin, 
who had now worked with Samuel for 
some years in looking after the personal 
interests of the men, was directing the 
picnic to a certain extent, though, to be 
frank, the people all knew one another 
and felt so free that they found their own 
enjoyment. This park was filled with 
amusements for persons ol all ages. In 
the midst of it was a big pavilion where 
there were addresses, music and danc- 
ing. One could travel to the bounds of 
the earth and not find a happier 
group of people. 

As the afternoon was wearing away 

57 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

into evening and the purple haze was 
settling about the distant mountains, 
Benjamin and Samuel watched the fam- 
ilies reuniting to leave for their prosper- 
ous and happy homes. Samuel was over- 
joyed and said, ''Our visit to Bethlehem 
on that Christmas Eve long ago has been 
the greatest inspiration of our life. This 
all is the fruit of that Christmas Spirit. 
How much more valuable is humanity 
than materials and persons than proper- 
ty! O, that the industrial world could 
get our vision! I believe it would solve 
our problems, bring us peace, exalt, en- 
rich and unify all classes of men.'' The 
joyful expression of Benjamin's face was 
evidence that he agreed with Samuel. 
He simply nodded and said, "The call of 
Christ is to all, and the Spirit of Christ- 
mas is for all. The man of Nazareth be- 
ing one of our common humanity holds 
in His gospel the elements of a common 
salvation." 



58 



NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 



His Last Words 

Pollycrates had built an Academy ad- 
jacent to his Temple in which he trained 
young men for teaching the world the 
new message of enlarged and enriched 
life. His work in this respect could not 
be estimated in external ways for it was 
inner, pervasive, spiritual. Being a lead- 
er of thought his name spread further 
than those of his friends. His followers 
revered him. Perhaps his great age and 
his venerable appearance added to the 
reverence which all had for his learning 
and charming manners. 

Pollycrates was now in his eighty-fifth 
year and while his eye was bright and 
his mind clear, his body was worn. He 
often expressed the belief that he would 
some day pass quietly to join his friends, 
Tisaphernes, Benjamin and Samuel, who 
had finished their labors here but whose 
work was still going on. 

One day in the spring of the year 25 
A. D., Pollycrates instructed his students 

59 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

with more earnestness than ever before. 
It was the last rush of the mighty waters 
of his soul, it was, alas, the last blaze 
of the dying embers of his life. He slept 
well that night and arose cheerfully the 
next morning. After a light breakfast 
and an hour spent in meditation his mind 
turned to the land of Judea and the visit 
he made there years ago. He turned his 
face to the south and beheld in a vision 
the promised child grown to manhood 
and saw a pure white dove descending 
and alighting upon his head bearing the 
approval of God, and he heard a voice 
saying, ''This is my Beloved Son in 
whom I am well pleased.'' 

Then Pollycrates looked again and 
saw this man talking to a great multi- 
tude who heard him gladly. The vision 
slowly faded and Pollycrates' eyes 
seemed to grow dim. He turned to his 
table and took his pen. He wrote a few 
words and then folding his arms on the 
table he placed his head upon them as 

m 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

he had been wont to do for years when 
engaged in thought or reveries. A deep 
silence settled in that room. An immense 
angel of love and good will seemed hov- 
ering above him. 

This was the day that Pollycrates, his 
students and friends were to meet in the 
Temple to rejoice at the return of spring 
and to give thanks for the spread of their 
gospel and the great increase of their 
followers. 

One of his friends and teachers who 
lived with him and who watched him 
went to his study door and saw him in 
his usual posture and called, "Father 
Pollycrates, the hour is almost come for 
our great service of joy." There was no 
movement, no reply. The friend drew 
near to the table with trembling. He 
placed his right hand gently on the 
shoulder of the old seer, and as he did he 
noticed a rare piece of vellum and on it 
the words Pollycrates had just written. 
He knew that his master had obtained 

61 



A NEW CHRISTMAS LEGEND 

his long desired wish and had moved on 
into the realms of light with a joyful 
vision in his mind. He read the last 
words of his loved leader : 

Lord, now lettest thou thy servant 
depart in peace, according to thy word: 

For mine eyes have seen Thy sal- 
vation, 

Which Thou hast prepared before the 
face of all people; 

A light to lighten the Gentiles, and 
the glory of Thy people Israel. 

Glory to God in the highest, on earth 
peace, good will among men. 

I pray * * * that they all may be 
Qj^g * * * i^iia^t they may be made per- 
fect in one * * * that the world may 
know * * * 



Finis 



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